Alice swiftly turned, aware that everyone must be waiting. As she did, the intense glare of camera flashes made her squint, revealing a startling sight: she was enveloped by a swarm of media professionals.

"Alice ma'am..."

"Miss Cooper....."

"Ma'am, you're looking gorgeous."

Alice found herself momentarily paralyzed by the sudden onslaught of cameras and a barrage of microphones aimed at her and Emma. The overwhelming situation left Emma visibly perturbed.

"Look at this cherubic little face..." A reporter marveled, charmed by Emma, while his cameraman seized the opportunity to take some pictures.

Regaining her composure, Alice quickly shielded Emma's face against her shoulder, though the camera's shutter continued its ceaseless...